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COVID-19 bereavement, depressive symptoms, and binge drinking
1Hamilton College, Department of Sociology, 198 College Hill Rd. Clinton, NY, 13323, USA.
SSM. Mental Health
|November 29, 2021
Summary
COVID-19 bereavement is linked to increased depressive symptoms and binge drinking. Essential workers experiencing this loss face amplified mental health challenges, highlighting a critical public health concern.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Mental Health
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in significant mortality and widespread psychological distress.
- Bereavement due to the pandemic presents unique challenges, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between COVID-19 bereavement and mental health outcomes, specifically depressive symptoms and binge drinking.
- To investigate whether these associations differ among essential workers.
Main Methods:
- Utilized national survey data from 1998 respondents.
- Employed a treatment-weighting strategy to adjust for non-random exposure to COVID-19 bereavement.
Main Results:
- Individuals who lost a close tie to COVID-19 reported higher levels of depressive symptoms and more frequent binge drinking.
- Essential workers experienced exacerbated depressive symptoms and binge drinking following the loss of a close tie to COVID-19.
Conclusions:
- COVID-19 bereavement is a significant risk factor for adverse mental health outcomes.
- Essential workers represent a particularly vulnerable group requiring targeted mental health support following pandemic-related loss.
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